ZZZ DISCONTINUED Hop Plant Northdown

Northdown was bred at Wye college and released for commercial growing in 1971 producing medium to large sized cones.

It is an aunty to Target and offspring of Northern Brewer and Challenger. It produces a high level of oil which results in full bodied ales with a fruity/flowery taste which can be used to make all types of beer and particularly Irish Stout.

Northdown offers a traditionally 'British' (as oppose to American) hop with aromas as you would expect. It has good resistance to downy mildew and is best grown in areas where wilt is not a problem.

The hop vines, known as 'bines', can reach up to 25 feet in height. The leaves are dark green while the large flowers are light green and scented. Fuggle crops more heavily towards the head of the plant. They are traditional grown on strings vertically to about 18 feet but you could also grow them along a fence or similar, or train them up a trellis. We recommend training 2-3 shoots  each year, but certainly no more than 8. All other growth should be removed. The bines will die back over the winter (or should be cut down in late autumn) and will re-grow from the base of the plant the following year.

The young shoots can be eaten and taste like artichokes or brussel sprouts!

Hop flowers are also used to treat arthritis, fibromyalgia, insomnia, diabetes and menopause symptoms because of their anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Hops in beer can help you produce good cholesterol, but be careful not to over do it! You can also use them to make tea and 'herb pillows'. Hops are related to cannabis!

• Early/mid-season ripening.
• Ready to harvest in September.
• Hardy, perennial.
• Produces a medium to large cone.
• Prefers moist, well-drained soil.
• Likes a sunny position.
• Will grow in most soil types except acidic ones.
• Train 2-3 bines around vertical strings/poles or similar (it's not recommended to train more than 8).
• A well rotted horse manure mulch around the surface is recommended.
• Will reach approximately 25 feet (7.5 metres) tall.
• Dry immediately (an airing cupboard works well for this!)
• Remove all growth above ground late autumn/winter.
  
  
• Medicinal Uses
• To treat anxiety, restleness, tension, sleep disorders.
• To treat arthritis.
• Have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Can help ADHD sufferers.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.